Page 63 - Passivity in Religion

The Characteristics of the Passive

self. Even if they are tired, they do not mention it, but, when one
task is completed, they go on to the next. They never make anyone
feel indebted to them, but instead make it appear as if it had been
a minor effort. Indeed, they know that they must gain the favor
and mercy of Allah, and accumulate their good deeds before they
die; they are humble and content with what they have, not expect-
ing even a "thank you" for anything they have done.
We can see that there is a great difference between those "who
worship Allah right on the edge" (Surat al-Hajj, 11), namely, the
type of individual who does not practice the religious morality,
and the attitude and behavior of a true, devout Muslim. On the
surface, each one appears to be religious and Muslim; they say
they believe in Allah and the afterlife. But, if you were to assess
them in light of the Qur'an, there would be an apparent difference
between one who has submitted wholeheartedly to Allah, and
who lives by the essence of his religion, and one whose religion is
disingenuous.

They Do Not Become Involved in Trying Matters
but Avoid and Offer Excuses

Those who favor passivity avoid issues that are of importance
to Islam and Muslims. They prefer to observe developments from
outside, and without comment. They never employ their minds to
become more involved in an issue, in order that they might help to
mitigate the harm or danger that might result. They do nothing to
protect the interests of Islam. They lurk on the sidelines, observing
without comment when a person is losing his faith and the eternal
life of Paradise. They witness the important efforts put forth by
the Muslims, but prefer to sit by doing nothing. Instead, they opt
to do that which does not require much effort, or offer a few empty

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